n Bring your pets indoors. If they cant come inside, make sure that they have enough shelter to keep them warm and that they can get to unfrozen water.

n Avoid frozen pipes by running water, even at a trickle, to help prevent them from freezing. Open the kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. If children are nearby, be sure to move any harmful cleaners and chemicals out of reach. Keep garage doors closed if there are water lines in the garage.

n Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night. Your heating bill may be a little higher, but you could avoid a more costly repair job if your pipes freeze and burst.

n Download the free American Red Cross App on iTunes or Google Play for quick, expert advice on what to do in case of an emergency.

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